A low level of daily exposure to a common component of sunlight can cause skin damage at the molecular level after just a few days, new University of Michigan Medical School research shows. The findings highlight the need for better sunscreens to protect against these damaging rays.

For the millions of people suffering from the intensely red, horribly itchy skin condition known as eczema, the only thing more maddening than their disease is the lack of understanding of what causes it, or makes it flare up from time to time. Now, new U-M research may bring that understanding closer – and could help lead to better treatments.

As we get older, the cells in our body do too. And like us, they become less resilient and able to weather the stress of everyday life. U-M researchers have found that in skin cells -- and perhaps others -- it's not just the cells but what surrounds them that's important.

While biologic drugs for treating psoriasis are getting a lot of buzz, University of Michigan Health System doctors say patients should also consider alternatives, like Goeckerman therapy, which have fewer risks and lower costs.